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Japanese Nio Buddhist Temple Guardian Masks in Carved lacquered Wood

About the Item

Japanese pair of Nio Buddhist temple guardian masks in finely carved and lacquered cypress wood, with signed labels on the inside, early 20th century, circa 1920. A pair of protectors, one on either side of the entrance to the temple, the Nio are diverse in style, but each of them with their bare-chested bodies rippling with muscles, fierce visages, and brandishing weapons, seem violent and threatening. The Nio were originally Hindu gods in India, who were adopted by the Japanese into the Buddhist pantheon. This pair of masks is a very striking work of art of finest Japanese craftsmanship.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14 in (35.56 cm)Width: 10 in (25.4 cm)Depth: 5 in (12.7 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Lacquered
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1920
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: G228 - 115572 - 09211stDibs: LU889325187972
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